Shelf Life Tips
- How long does an unopened package of cream cheese last? The exact answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of cream cheese, keep it refrigerated at all times.
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How long does unopened cream cheese last after the "sell by" date or "best before" date? Cream cheese will generally keep for about 1 month after the "sell by" or " best before" date on the package, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated.
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How long does cream cheese last at room temperature? If kept at temperatures above 40 °F, cream cheese will rapidly develop signs of spoilage; cream cheese should be discarded if left for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
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To further extend the shelf life of opened cream cheese, freeze it: Unopened cream cheese sold in a foil-wrapped block may be frozen in its original packaging.
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Frozen cream cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavor; the thawed cream cheese will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
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How long does cream cheese last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 2 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - cream cheese that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does cream cheese last after being frozen and thawed? Cream cheese that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; cream cheese that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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How can you tell if cream cheese is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the cream cheese: if cream cheese turns yellow or develops an off odor or flavor, it should be discarded for quality purposes; if mold appears, discard the entire package.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
